Across Time and Space

When studying Torah, the Jewish way is to sit with Chazal and turn the text over and over. Engaging with our Sages, of Blessed Memory, allows us to reach across time and distance and develop appreciation for and a relationship with those whom we have never had a face-to-face encounter.

In a similar way, the internet serves as a portal to those whom might never have the opportunity to meet IRL. Email, blogs, tweets, Facebook, VBlogs — each platform allowing us to connect with others in an intimate and very real way.

There are people whose blogs I have been reading so long and so consistently, and with whom I correspond, that I count them among my friends. Sometimes the distance provides safety in exploring difficult issues that might be more difficult to do with others. I have also established relationships and friendships with Jews from segments in our community that I might not otherwise have had the fortune of meeting.

Like RivkA. Her self-description:

I am a Red-Head (to know one, is to love one), Zionist (last of a dying breed), Idealist (can’t help it, I still want to change the world), Enthusiastic People Person (love to meet you!), Mom (my kids are EVERYTHING to me), Wife (married to my best friend), and Cancer Survivor (read on!).

Observant, passionate, and funny as all get out, I knew the first time I read one of RivkA’s posts that we would click and that my life would be enriched by the experience.

And, I knew as well, that my heart would some day ache to read of her death as it does today.

RivkA leaves behind her loving husband, children, and many, many friends and students. And I count myself fortunate to be among them.

May RivkA bat Yishaya‘s name always be sweet on the lips of those who knew her.

Zichrona L’vrakha — may her memory be for a blessing.

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Just a few of the many tributes from others touched by RivkA’s guidance, love, and friendship:
Robin’s She’s Gone. Baruch Dayan ha’emet
Staying Afloat’s And the world keeps turning
Ricki’s Mom’s Thoughts on RivkA, Life, and Death
Adena’s Friends in Cyberspace